OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Ocala City Council unanimously approved by a 5-0 vote, an ordinance designating a historic landmark paying homage to a local rock legend who was inspired by an even bigger rock legend, at their meeting Dec. 16, 2025.
The applicant was Ocala Sunset Rotary, with representative Paul Stentiford. They submitted a certificate of appropriateness to request the installation of a historic marker for rock ‘n’ roll icon Elvis Presley in Ocala that was inspired by Gainesville-bred music star Tom Petty. The marker will be installed at the southeast corner of 117 East Silver Springs Blvd., and is entitled, “Elvis in Ocala, Tom Petty Inspired.”
The marker recognized Elvis Presley’s 1961 visit to Ocala while filming the movie “Follow That Dream,” said Aubrey Hale, City of Ocala planning director. It was during that visit that 10-year-old Tom Petty met Elvis at the northwest corner of SR 40 and Osceola.
Staff went through the process of going through the Ocala code of ordinances, which establishes the procedures and criteria for historic landmark designations and eligible resources that may include buildings and structures, objects and sites.
The proposed marker meets the criteria for a historic landmark designation and supports the education goals related to public education and cultural needs of the city, said Hale.
On Nov. 6, 2025, OHPAB, the Ocala Historic Preservation Advisory Board, recommended approval of the ordinance being proposed to the council, said Hale. The request meets the requirements for the designation of a local historic landmark, and staff recommended approval.
